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Sweet Vidalia Onion Sides

Featured in: Everyday Bites

This dish features large Vidalia onions slow-roasted whole in foil with butter, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. The roasting process yields meltingly soft onions bursting with sweet, aromatic flavors. The onions are gently unwrapped, peeled, and served warm with the infused melted butter drizzled on top. Optional fresh parsley adds brightness and color. This side pairs beautifully with meats, grilled vegetables, or can complement vegetarian meals. Simple preparation and easy ingredients make it a refined yet effortless addition to your table.

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Updated on Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:51:00 GMT
Golden, slow-roasted Onion Boil, tender and sweet, with thyme and melted butter, ready to serve. Save
Golden, slow-roasted Onion Boil, tender and sweet, with thyme and melted butter, ready to serve. | fryflick.com

A sweet, tender Vidalia onion roasted whole until meltingly soft, with aromatic herbs and butter: a simple yet elegant side dish.

I first prepared this onion boil when searching for a unique side dish to complement a family dinner: the aroma filled the kitchen and instantly delighted everyone.

Ingredients

  • Vidalia onions: 4 large, unpeeled
  • Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp
  • Fresh thyme: 4 sprigs
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, peeled
  • Kosher salt: 1 tsp
  • Freshly ground black pepper: ½ tsp
  • Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Onions:
Trim root ends and tops so onions sit flat, leaving skins on. Cut a shallow X into the top of each onion.
Season and Fill:
Place onions on squares of heavy-duty foil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Press 1 tbsp butter, 1 sprig thyme, and 1 garlic into the cut top of every onion.
Wrap and Roast:
Wrap each onion tightly in foil and place on baking sheet. Roast for 1 hour 10 minutes until very tender.
Serve:
Carefully unwrap, remove skins, and arrange onions on plates. Spoon melted butter over and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
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Gathering around the table, our family always enjoys breaking open these tender onions: their savory aroma sparks anticipation and brings everyone together.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these roasted onions with grilled meats, alongside vegetable platters, or enjoy as a meatless main with crusty bread.

Flavor Variations

Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika to boost the depth of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains about 130 calories, 7 g fat, 19 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein: perfect for a light but satisfying side.

Foil-wrapped Onion Boil, steaming hot, with glistening caramelized onions ready for a delicious bite. Save
Foil-wrapped Onion Boil, steaming hot, with glistening caramelized onions ready for a delicious bite. | fryflick.com

Serve warm for the best flavor: these onions are both rustic and refined, making any meal special.

Recipe Guide

→ What type of onions work best for this dish?

Sweet onions like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui varieties are ideal for their mild sweetness and tender texture when roasted.

→ Can I prepare these onions ahead of time?

You can roast the onions in advance and reheat wrapped in foil to retain moisture before serving.

→ Is peeling the onion skins necessary after roasting?

Yes, removing the skins after roasting reveals the tender, flavorful flesh and improves texture.

→ What herbs enhance the flavor best?

Fresh thyme provides a subtle earthiness that complements the sweetness, while garlic adds depth.

→ Can I add variations for extra flavor?

Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika before roasting can enrich the flavor profile.

Sweet Vidalia Onion Sides

Tender Vidalia onions roasted whole with herbs and butter for a flavorful, elegant side dish.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
70 min
Complete duration
80 min
Created by Olivia Parker


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Dietary guidelines Meat-free, No gluten

Components

Main

01 4 large Vidalia onions, unpeeled

Seasoning and Aromatics

01 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 4 sprigs fresh thyme
03 4 garlic cloves, peeled
04 1 teaspoon kosher salt
05 ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional Garnish

01 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Method

Phase 01

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Phase 02

Prepare Onions: Trim the root ends and tops of each onion so they sit flat, keeping the skins intact.

Phase 03

Score Onions: Using a paring knife, cut a shallow X into the top of each onion.

Phase 04

Season Onions: Place each onion on a square of heavy-duty foil, sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Phase 05

Add Aromatics and Butter: Press 1 tablespoon butter, 1 sprig thyme, and 1 garlic clove into the cut top of each onion.

Phase 06

Wrap Onions: Wrap each onion tightly in foil and place on a baking sheet.

Phase 07

Roast: Roast for 1 hour and 10 minutes until onions are very tender when pierced with a knife.

Phase 08

Serve: Carefully unwrap, remove skins, and transfer to serving plates. Spoon melted butter from foil over onions and sprinkle with parsley if desired.

Tools needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Heavy-duty aluminum foil
  • Paring knife
  • Oven

Allergy details

Review ingredients carefully for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains dairy due to butter. Substitute with vegan butter or olive oil for dairy-free variation.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - please consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 130
  • Fats: 7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Proteins: 2 g